Begin in Republic Square, climb the Cascade for city-and-Ararat views, browse the Vernissage craft market, and sample Armenian brandy or wine. Don’t miss the Cafesjian Center for the Arts and the sobering History Museum & Armenian Genocide Museum.

Cooler than Yerevan in summer, Sevan is perfect for swims, picnics, and sunset views from Sevanavank monastery. Try local trout (ishkhan) and explore nearby Noratus Cemetery’s medieval khachkars (cross-stones).

Sip indigenous varietals (Areni noir) at family-run wineries, visit the Areni-1 cave (site of one of the world’s oldest known winemaking facilities), and photograph flame-red cliffs framing Noravank monastery.

Head to Lori province for soaring canyon views and twin UNESCO-listed monasteries. Odzun Basilica and small village museums round out a culture-rich, crowd-light itinerary.

Currency is the Armenian dram (AMD). Cards work widely in Yerevan; carry cash for villages and markets. Marshrutkas link towns; taxis are inexpensive in cities (apps like GG/Yandex Go). Winter driving needs caution—mountain passes can ice.

Pair the Greco-Roman pagan temple at Garni with nearby rock-hewn Geghard. Hike or drive into the Azat Gorge to see the “Symphony of Stones” basalt columns; go early or late to beat tour-bus crowds.

Base in Dilijan National Park for pine-scented trails and monasteries like Haghartsin and Goshavank. Expect misty forests, artisan workshops, and hearty village food—great in spring and early autumn.

Ride the Wings of Tatev aerial tramway to the cliff-perched Tatev Monastery. Add Devil’s Bridge and the caves of Khndzoresk for an adventurous loop through Syunik’s dramatic gorges.

Feast on khorovats (barbecue), tolma (stuffed vine leaves), jingalov hats (herb-stuffed flatbread from the south), ghapama (pumpkin rice), and sticky-sweet gata. Watch lavash baked in a tonir—Armenia’s UNESCO-recognized flatbread.

Best time to visit Armenia: May–June and September–October for mild temps and clear views. July–August is hot in the lowlands but pleasant at Lake Sevan and in the forests; winter brings skiing at Tsaghkadzor. Distances are short but roads are winding—download offline maps, allow buffer time, and check the latest guidance before visiting sensitive border regions.